Arab News Japan

TOKYO: Japan has condemned the Taliban for imposing further restrictions on women and girls in Afghanistan. The Taliban issued a notice on December 24 to national and international non-governmental organizations (NGOs) working in Afghanistan prohibiting female employees from going to work. 

In a statement by Foreign Ministry press secretary ONO Hikariko was unequivocal in its condemnation.

“Japan is deeply concerned and strongly condemns the Taliban’s further restrictions on the rights of women and girls, following the decision in March of this year to suspend secondary education for girls, and higher education in December, despite repeated efforts by Japan and the international community.”

“Women’s participation in society is essential to Afghanistan’s future economic development. National and international NGOs also play an important role in the implementation of humanitarian assistance.”

The statement said that Japan will continue to work with the international community to urge the Taliban to reverse its decision to restrict the rights of women and girls.